About this trip idea

West Lafayette takes you around the globe and back in timePurdue University’s Robert L. Ringel Gallery features the works of world-renowned artists. Its permanent collection includes international works such as pre-Columbian funerary cloths, African masks, and Japanese relief prints; the gallery also hosts national traveling exhibits. The impressive Black Cultural Center, also on campus, offers a journey through the African-American experience with its permanent art collection. The Center is home to many performing arts ensembles, including Black Voices of Inspiration and Jahari Dance Troupe. Visit during the holidays for the popular Purdue Christmas Show. Purchase tickets early – the show sells out quickly! During the rest of the year, The Purdue Convocations delivers Broadway musicals, plays and concerts.

In October, attend the Feast of the Hunters’ Moon, a re-creation of the annual gathering of the French and Native Americans. Held in Historic Fort Ouiatenon Park on the banks of the Wabash, the two-day feast features performances by the Tippecanoe Ancient Fife and Drum Corps, military drills and Native American dance. Taste French, English and Native American foods such as buffalo cooked over open fires. Visit with artisans demonstrating 18th century crafts like baskets and wooden tubs.

Indoor and outdoor art awaits you in Terre HauteDown the Wabash River 100 miles or so is Terre Haute, home to the Swope Art Museum and a growing collection of outdoor sculptures known as Wabash Valley Art Spaces. One of the outdoor sculptures, Spirit of Space, stands outside the doors of the Art Deco Swope. Its permanent collection, some 2,000 works strong, is devoted to 19th and 20th century American artists, with well-known names such as Thomas Hart Benton, Edward Hopper, Grant Wood and Eva Hess. Don’t miss the Marilyn screenprint by Andy Warhol. Traveling exhibitions are carefully selected for their ability to broaden visitors’ art appreciation. Pick up an Art Spaces map and take a self-guided tour of seven (and growing!) outdoor sculptures. Continue your cultural tour downtown at the Clabber Girl Museum, where you can walk down an old main street and learn about the history of baking. Enjoy lunch or dessert in the Clabber Girl Bake Shop.